Ex-refugee helps students manage culture shock
Each week, this series will introduce you to an exceptional American who unites, rather than divides, our communities. To read more about the American profiled here and more average Americans doing exceptional things, visit onenation.usatoday.com. What does it mean to you to be an American? Being an American means that I live in the “land of the free.” This freedom has been won by those who have sacrificed their lives to protect our country and the Constitution. Being an American means that I have vast opportunities that offer the possibility of a great future. What moment touched and motivated you to launch this effort? It was about two years ago when I met a few Asian students attending Olympic College. Meeting these students, and hearing about many others like them, reminded me of when I first came to America. When I came to this country over 30 years ago, I was lonely and in culture shock. I was unable to speak the language, unfamiliar with the food and climate. What gives you hope? My new faith in Christ gives me hope. I am very thankful to live in a country where I can express my freedom of religion. What do you hope to accomplish through your efforts? My hope is that every student that comes to English Corner fellowship (will have) an opportunity to practice ... their English language, make American friends and learn about the American freedom, culture, belief and its traditions. My hope is that when these students return home to their country, they will take what they have learned with them, and it will broaden their perspective.